Description

This book unearths new knowledge that comprehensively reflects upon the complexity of recognition experiences and integration challenges faced by Muslims individuals and groups in Europe. By focusing on universal recognition themes related to experiences within personal relationships, legal relations, religion and civil society, it makes an important contribution to a deeper understanding of Muslim life in the West. It aims to reconsider the everyday lives of Muslims in Europe by drawing on the paradigm of recognition. Exploring universal themes, it demonstrates the complexity of recognitive relations by examining how Muslim individuals perceive the ways they are recognised or misrecognised within various spheres of everyday interaction. With attention to the ways in which forms of recognition affect identity formation and social relations more generally, and the broader ramifications that arise from such forms of misrecognition, the author draws on Honneth’s critical social theory of recognition to frame a range of grassroots interviews and focused discussion groups. Grounded in qualitative research and with an emancipatory intent, The Lived Experiences of Muslims in Europe challenges both the assumption that minority groups simply seek to have their particular culture and associated beliefs endorsed by a majority, and the security paradigm that narrowly views Muslims in Europe through the lens of political extremism.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Muslims in Europe: Divergent Perspectives

3. Recognition and Power

4. Societal Relations

5. Spiritual Relations

6. Intergenerational Relations

7. Resolving Recognitive-Power Dilemmas

8. Conclusion

About the Author

Des Delaney is Associate Researcher at the School of Philosophy, University College Dublin (UCD), Ireland. His research interests are the synthesis of philosophy and empirical sociology, particularly in relation to recognition, power, social struggle, and integration issues.

About the Series

This series explores core issues in political philosophy and social theory. Addressing theoretical subjects of both historical and contemporary relevance, the series has broad appeal across the social sciences. Contributions include new studies of major thinkers, key debates and critical concepts.